How do you use a DVB card to watch satellite TV?

A:

Quick Answer

Install a digital video broadcast card for satellite television into a personal computer. It connects to a satellite input device and tunes the digital satellite TV channels for display on the computer's video screen or for recording to the hard drive.

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The DVB card is typically a circuit board that installs into a PCI slot available on most desktop personal computers. DVB cards come in a wide variety of styles, sizes and price ranges. Not all cards work with all devices so you must make sure that the satellite input source, DVB card and PC model are compatible.

There is a coaxial cable port on the DVB card that connects the card to the incoming satellite TV signal, typically from a satellite dish. The DVB card decodes and tunes the signals to receive those channels that are free to view over the air. The channels that are available depend on the type and source of the satellite TV signal.

The DVB card comes with software to control the card and its functions. Many cards come with wireless remote control units as well. Some newer cards are equipped with digital video recording features that let them function similar to DVR units available from satellite and cable TV providers.